Check whether the tree is protected
You need your council's consent before cutting down or pruning a tree covered by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO). In a conservation area, you must usually give the council six weeks' notice before working on a tree, even if it has no TPO. Doing this work without permission is a criminal offence.
Who to ask in Norfolk
Contact your district council: Breckland, Broadland, Great Yarmouth, King's Lynn and West Norfolk, North Norfolk, Norwich or South Norfolk. In the Broads, contact the Broads Authority. A good tree surgeon will check for you, but it is worth checking yourself.
Nesting birds and bats
It is an offence to damage or destroy an active bird's nest, so plan bigger jobs outside spring and early summer where you can. Bats roost in some trees, and they are protected too.
Qualifications and standards
Ask about training. Chainsaw operators should hold relevant certificates, such as City & Guilds NPTC. The Arboricultural Association runs an Approved Contractor scheme. Good tree work follows British Standard BS 3998.
Insurance and quotes
- Check they have public liability insurance and ask for a copy.
- Get written quotes that say exactly what will be removed or cut back, and whether the stump will be ground out.
- Ask what happens to the wood and green waste, and check they are a registered waste carrier.
- Ask who will deal with any council consent or notice.
Neighbours' trees
You can usually cut back branches that hang over your boundary, up to the boundary line, unless the tree is protected. Talk to your neighbour first, and offer them the cuttings, as they belong to the tree owner.